Gas Fireplace Insert Installation: Memphis Homeowners Trust In Us
There are lots of reasons to upgrade a fireplace: maybe you’re looking for better heat output, maybe you want the look of it updated, or maybe you’re hoping for something more streamlined and convenient. If you want something that checks all the boxes, though, consider investing in a new gas fireplace insert for your Memphis home.
We’ve been serving folks in the Memphis area, as well as countless cities and towns surrounding, for years, and we’d be happy to set you up with the perfect heating system for your needs.
Ready to get started? So are we. Call us now or book your appointment online today.
What Are the Benefits of Upgrading to a Gas Insert?
OK, so you’ve been told that a gas insert would be an ideal upgrade…but why exactly? Upgrading to a gas insert for your fireplace offers several benefits, including increased efficiency, more convenience, added safety, and environmental-friendliness.
Let’s go over everything you have to gain.
- Increased Efficiency: A more efficient fireplace results in higher heat output, a wider heating area, and heat that’s more consistent and reliable.
- Lower Energy Bills: …and speaking of increased efficiency, an appliance that pours more heat into your space empowers you to lower your thermostat – and, thus, your energy bills.
- More Convenience: Gas appliances are easy to use with simple on/off controls. Many models also come with remote controls or can be operated via a smartphone app – that’s a convenience you can’t beat.
- Less Mess: Wood-burning fireplaces produce ash, soot, and creosote, making them messier to deal with and maintain. On the flip side, gas units provide immediate heat at the push of a button – eliminating the need to gather and light firewood.
- Reduced Risk of Fire: Since there are no open flames or embers, the risk of a fire starting from sparks or hot ash is minimized.
- No Indoor Pollutants: Gas inserts produce fewer indoor pollutants compared to wood-burning fireplaces, leading to better indoor air quality.
- Environmental Friendliness: Gas inserts also produce fewer emissions compared to wood counterparts, contributing to better outdoor air quality…and reducing your carbon footprint.
- Modern Design Options: Gas inserts come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose one that complements your home’s decor, no problem. They also tend to look more sleek and modern, if that’s what you’re going for.
- Improved Home Value: Fireplaces on their own increase home value, but installing a gas insert can increase the resale value of your home even more due to its modern appeal and energy efficiency.
- Low Maintenance: With fewer cleaning and maintenance requirements compared to wood fireplaces, gas inserts can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.
All in all, upgrading to a gas insert offers a combination of practical, environmental, and aesthetic benefits, making it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners. Ready to get yours installed? Reach out to us now.
What’s the Difference Between a Fireplace & a Fireplace Insert?
Understanding the difference between a fireplace and a fireplace insert is crucial when considering options for home heating and aesthetics. Here are the key distinctions:
Fireplaces
A fireplace is thought of more as a structural feature that’s built into a wall, and it offers a more traditional and timeless ambiance. Traditionally, fireplaces are made of brick, stone, or metal, and they can come in a range of fuel types, such as wood-burning, gas, and electric.
In addition to providing warmth and serving many practical purposes, fireplaces can enhance the ambiance of a room, serving as a central focal point in home décor and social gatherings.
Compared to inserts, traditional open fireplaces are generally less efficient, losing much of the heat up the chimney.
Fireplace Inserts
A fireplace insert is an appliance designed to improve the efficiency and functionality of an already existing fireplace. Typically constructed from cast iron or steel, a fireplace insert is a sealed box that can be – literally – inserted into an existing firebox.
These inserts can burn wood, gas, pellets, or electricity, and they are often used to upgrade an old-fashioned wood fireplace into something more efficient (like a gas one).
Equipped with a glass front, blowers, and vents, fireplace inserts ensure that more heat is directed into the living space, rather than being lost up the chimney. Additionally, they offer a cleaner and more controlled burn, reducing emissions and the mess associated with traditional fireplaces.
In the end, fireplace inserts are a popular choice for homeowners seeking to retain the charm of their fireplace, while still significantly boosting its heating performance and environmental efficiency.
So…which is right for you?
Both fireplaces and fireplace inserts are good options, so what’s best for you is really just dependent on your specific setup and needs.
If you don’t have any type of fireplace in your home, then an insert obviously won’t be an option, since you don’t have anything to insert it into.
On the other hand, if you already have a traditional masonry fireplace and are just wanting to improve its efficiency (without messing too much with its actual appearance), a fireplace insert is a great option.
In addition, installing a fireplace insert won’t be as big a project as building an entirely new fireplace. If you want to avoid extensive construction and already have a fireplace, an insert can be a simpler and more cost-effective solution.
On the side of traditional fireplaces, though, they are known to provide a classic, open-fire ambiance that some people simply prefer. If the visual appeal and ambiance are important to you – and heating efficiency is less of a concern – a traditional fireplace might be more suitable.
Need help navigating your options? Give us a call or reach out online. We’d love to help.
Can I Install a Gas Fireplace Insert Myself?
Installing a gas fireplace insert – or any fireplace or chimney appliance or component, for that matter – on your own isn’t something we’ll ever recommend. Remember that you’re dealing with fire, gas, and heat…in the middle of your living space! This isn’t something even the most handy DIY-er should tackle.
Why not? Incorrect installation can lead to numerous risks, such as gas leaks, fires, or even explosions. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of harmful gases, and incorrectly installed ventilation systems can lead to serious health risks and dangers.
In addition, local building codes and regulations often govern the installation of gas appliances. Professionals are familiar with these codes and can ensure the installation is compliant, which is crucial for safety and legal reasons.
Finally, consider that many manufacturers’ warranties are voided if the fireplace insert is not installed by a certified professional. Oh – and improper installation might affect your homeowners insurance coverage in the event of a related incident too.
In the end, you want to know your insert is going to function correctly, efficiently, and safely. Installing a gas fireplace insert requires specific tools and skills, such as gas line connections, sealing, and precise fitting. A professional installation ensures that the unit operates at optimal efficiency, providing better heat output and cost savings in the long run.
Does My Gas Insert Need Annual Servicing?
Yes – despite operating cleaner and more efficiently than wood options, your gas insert does need annual servicing to ensure it operates safely and efficiently. In fact, no matter your fuel type, you should be investing in annual maintenance for your fireplace and chimney.
Here’s why:
- You’ll stay ahead of any problems. Annual servicing helps to identify and resolve any potential gas leaks or issues with the gas lines and connections, reducing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
- You ensure optimal efficiency at all times. Dust, debris, and soot can accumulate in the insert and its components. Cleaning these parts ensures that the insert operates at peak efficiency, providing optimal heat output and reducing energy consumption.
- You’ll likely extend the lifespan of the unit. Routine maintenance helps to prevent wear and tear on the components of your gas insert, extending its lifespan and ensuring it continues to function reliably.
- You can rest easier knowing all safety features are being inspected. A professional technician can calibrate the insert to ensure the flame burns correctly, check the pilot light and ignition system, and verify that all safety features are working properly.
- You’ll keep warranties valid. Many manufacturers require annual maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Regular servicing ensures that any warranty claims you may need to make in the future are honored.
- You’ll lower the risk of experiencing poor indoor air quality. Regular inspections and cleaning help maintain good indoor air quality by ensuring that the insert’s venting system is functioning properly and effectively, removing combustion byproducts from your home.
Ready to get your yearly inspection and service on the books? We’ve got you covered. Call or book online today.
Do Gas Inserts Work During Power Outages?
That depends on the type and model you buy…but there are options that do, in fact, work in power outages! It depends on a few things:
- The ignition system. Many gas inserts use an electronic ignition system that requires electricity to light the pilot or burners. However, some models have battery backup systems that allow the ignition to function during a power outage. Alternatively, inserts with a standing pilot light do not require electricity to ignite.
- If blower fans are present. While the gas insert can produce heat without electricity, the blower fans, which help distribute warm air throughout the room, typically require power to operate. Without electricity, these fans won’t function, but the radiant heat from the insert can still provide warmth.
- If you have remote controls and thermostats. Many gas inserts are controlled by electronic remotes or thermostats, which may not work during a power outage unless they have a battery backup.
- Other model-specific features. Some high-end gas inserts are designed to operate independently of electrical power or have features specifically to ensure continued operation during outages. It’s important to check the specifications of your particular model.
Searching for Gas Fireplace Inserts Near You? We’re Here To Help
If you’re searching for gas fireplace inserts near you, look no further. At Coopertown, we specialize in providing top-quality gas fireplace inserts and professional installation services to homeowners in the Memphis area and beyond. With years of experience serving customers in countless cities and towns, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect heating solution for your home.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation or book your appointment online.
Regular gas fireplace maintenance will keep it ready and safe to use. You can rely on our gas services experts to make that happen.